WHERE does one start when attempting to describe a city like Rome? From the brutal history of the Colosseum, to the ethereal tomb of St Peter and inside Vatican City, Rome truly tells the stories of human history like nowhere else on earth.
And when visiting such a city, it is only fitting to stay at a hotel with its own impressive history. Although built in the 16th century, Hotel d’Inghilterra came into being in 1845 and soon became known as ‘The English Hotel’ thanks to its famous English guests, most notably the poets Keats, Byron and Shelley. Later it would become a favourite with stars such as Elizabeth Taylor, Gregory Peck and Ernest Hemingway, to name just a few.
Hotel d’Inghilterra Roma exterior
Junior Suite
The opulence of the hotel and attentive service makes even the ordinary traveller feel like a celebrity. The décor and furnishings are in rich, classical hues, old paintings adorn the walls and chandeliers sparkle from the ceilings.
There’s objets d’art and antique furniture but there’s also a cosiness owing to the hotel’s boutique size. One has the feeling of being a private guest in a very beautiful home. The staff welcome you as if you have been staying there for years. And the rooms are so beautiful and thoughtfully laid out that you can feel the personal touch applied to each of them.
In the restaurant, Cafè Romano, Executive Chef Andrea Sangiuliano serves his own unique take on Italian and Mediterranean classics using seasonal ingredients. Bold new creations like amberjack carpaccio marinated in negroni cocktail sit alongside famous traditional Roman dishes like carbonara.
Cafè Romano is also where breakfast is served to enjoy freshly baked pastries, perfectly poached eggs benedict and the best coffee in Rome.
Hotel d’Inghilterra Roma Living Room
The hotel is within walking distance of all of the city’s most famous sights, including the Trevi fountain – immortalised in Fellini’s iconic film La Dolce Vita, the Spanish Steps – which featured prominently in Hollywood blockbuster The Talented Mr Ripley, and, most magnificent of all, the Colosseum.
Whether you are staying in the former suite of a Hollywood star or visiting a famous movie backdrop, one cannot help but feel the magic of the eternal city.
by Nicola Kavanagh
Rates start from €1,100 per night per room including breakfast
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